Itinerary: The Perfect Atlanta Road Trip
There is so much to see in the South, and we’re thrilled you selected Atlanta for your great American road trip origin. Georgia may be known for peaches and southern hospitality, but Atlanta’s close proximity to numerous nature preserves, state parks, lakes and rivers makes it a truly unique outdoors destination. Our five day road trip itinerary hits the well-known Atlanta hot spots (yes, even the Coca-Cola museum!) while introducing you to Georgia’s best kept secrets.
Are you ready to experience the real Atlanta? You’ll chase waterfalls at Amicalola Falls State Park, kayak down Chattahoochee River, jet ski across Lake Lanier, hike the final steps of the Appalachian Trail and ride a cable car to the top of Stone Mountain, with detours at apple orchards, water parks, botanical gardens, wineries and campgrounds along the way.
Follow along for an Atlanta road trip your family will never forget.
Day One
After arriving at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, grab your bags, pile in the rental van and check out a few of the city’s main attractions before heading north.
See the city by bike on the Atlanta Beltline, or explore the 30-acre Atlanta Botanical Garden in Piedmont Park. The kids are sure to love Centennial Olympic Park, home to the Coca-Cola museum, the Georgia Aquarium and the Center for Civil and Human Rights.
When you're ready, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a 23-minute drive north.
Total miles and drive time: 20 miles, ~ 40 minute drive
What to Do
Welcome to Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area! You’ll have plenty of activity options to choose from until you set up camp for the night. Trout fishing on the river is one of the most popular activities. And everyone will enjoy the river’s refreshing year-round cool temperatures.
You can tackle the 48-mile river by boat, as the park allows canoes, rafts, kayaks, small motor boats and inner tubes all season. Back on land, explore hiking trails and an 8-mile mountain bike loop.
Where to Eat
If you want to eat in the city before heading to the campground, The Varsity is a 90-year-old iconic fast food restaurant. For fancier fare, South Kitchen Midtown is set in a 1920s-style bungalow and offers a new twist on Southern classics. Or check out the comfort food at retro country diner, Home Grown.
Where to Camp
The recreation area of the Chattahoochee National Park doesn’t allow camping, but you can drive to other areas of the park that do. RV camping and cabin rentals are available at some locations. We recommend Andrews Cove, a small campground with a relaxing stream that runs through it.
Day Two
Next stop, Amicalola Falls State Park! When you’re about 10 miles outside of Amicalola, make an adult detour to relax with a tasting at Cartecay or Fainting Goat Winery. This region is also known for its apple orchards, and the kids will dig the play areas at Hillcrest Orchards and Reece Apple House. When you reach your final destination, Amicalola Deer Park and Amicalola Zipline & Adventure Park are interactive attractions the whole family can enjoy together.
Total miles and drive time: 67 miles, ~ 1 hour, 20 minute drive
Photo via Fainting Goat Winery
What to Do
Survivalist camps, archery, GPS scavenger hunts, climbing walls, fly fishing classes, guided tours and more! You’ll have plenty to keep you busy at Amicalola Falls State Park.
Of course, there’s plenty of exploring to do on your own, too. Hiking trails are a main feature of the park, including the 8.5-mile trail that leads to Springer Mountain, which is the southern end of the 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail. When you’re ready to cool off in the water, be sure to check out the amazing 729-foot Amicalola Falls—the largest waterfall in the Southeast.
Where to Eat
Just outside the gates of Big Canoe, Home Restaurant serves American fare in a nice atmosphere. Sourwood is another area favorite, with seafood options like shrimp creole and mussels & frites.
Where to Camp
Though there is lodging available on-site, we recommend camping to connect with nature on a deeper level. There are 24 wooded campsites on the park grounds, but the spots do fill up fast. Alternatively, Plum Nelly Campground is a 15-mile drive, and has hookups, WiFi and shower facilities.
Day Three
From Amicalola Falls State Park, head south on Highway 53E to reach your next destination, Lake Lanier. To break up the drive, stretch your legs on a trail or simply enjoy the view at Sawnee Mountain Preserve. In the summertime, catch a minor league baseball game at Coolray Field, home of the Gwinnett Stripers. Or, cool off at Cumming Aquatic Center with pools and water slides for the kids.
Total miles and drive time: 44 miles, ~ 1 hour drive
What to Do
There is non-stop entertainment at Lake Lanier. Stay active with Volleyball Tuesdays and Flyboard Wednesdays. Or take to the water on a guided boat tour, including the adults-only Wine Cruise.
Boat rentals are available for independent travelers, in addition to golf, horseback riding, ziplining and watersports. And if you need a mid-trip escape, there’s a day spa nearby.
Where to Eat
One of the great things about Lake Lanier is that you don’t have to go far to find great food. Fish Tales Lakeside Grille is a relaxed waterside restaurant serving seafood, and Twisted Oar is open late with comfort food. When you’re craving barbeque, grab a table at local favorite Pig Tales.
Where to Camp
Old Federal is a campground on the eastern bank of the lake that allows RVs and tents. On the southside, Van Pugh has 37 spacious campsites, most with great views.
Day Four
Continuing south past Atlanta, you’ll drive for 57 miles to Arabia Mountain, located to the southeast of the city. If you missed any of the main attractions on day one of our itinerary (Coca-Cola museum, anyone?), now is your second chance to explore. If you’d rather escape the hustle and bustle, Atlanta Adventure Tours is located on 3,200 acres outside the city with Segway and electric bike rentals. In nearby Piedmont, you can stretch your legs at Panola Mountain State Park. Or mix up your routine and visit Georgia International Horse Park for some Olympic-quality equestrian fun.
Total miles and drive time: 57 miles, ~ 1 hour, 20 minute drive
Photo via Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area Facebook
What to Do
Welcome to the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, one of the most historically significant attractions in the greater Atlanta region. The land surrounding the mountain was some of the first settled in the state of Georgia, and now visitors can experience the land in fun, modern ways.
The Arabia Mountain Path is a 30-mile paved pathway perfect for a leisurely bike ride with views of farm buildings, houses and bridges. Take to the lake by canoe, kayak and paddleboard, or explore the various hiking trails by foot. One of the park’s standout features is the Monastery of the Holy Spirit where Trappist monks live and work. Guided tours are available for access and insight.
Where to Eat
When you’ve worked up an appetite at Arabia Mountain, visit The Mill Bar & Grill for burgers, wings and weekly live music. For healthier eats, visit the vegan-friendly Green Love Kitchen in Lithonia.
Where to Camp
There are no campgrounds at Arabia Mountain. However, the nearby Panola Mountain is an approved site for primitive camping. Panola also offers an archery site and a playground for the kids.
Day Five
Rise and shine early on the fifth and final day of your Georgia road trip. But there’s no need to rush to the airport just yet. Head north for a 25-minute drive to Stone Mountain Park, on the eastern side of the city. There is a ton to see and do inside the park, and we have some highlights to hit along the way. For food lovers, the Dekalb and Buford Highway farmers markets are two of the best in the South. If you’re into architecture, take a temple detour to admire BAPS Shri Swaminarayan.
Total miles and drive time: 12 miles, ~ 26 minute drive
What to Do
The 3,200 acres of Stone Mountain Park are packed with family-friendly activities. Hike to the top (which takes about an hour) to take in the views, or enjoy a ride to the peak in a cable car. Don’t miss the main attraction, a massive monolith featuring a carving of Confederate Generals.
The theme park area offers tours, such as a Ride the Ducks boat ride and the historic railroad. And the kids will love Stone Mountain Adventure Park with a 4D theater, adventure golf and water rides.
Where to Eat
You have a big journey ahead of you. Fuel up with local bites in the city before driving to the airport. A few Atlanta favorites are Sweet Potato Café, Crazy Ron’s BBQ and the 1910 Public House.
That concludes your five day road trip around the greater Atlanta, Georgia region. If you have the urge to extend your trip, camping is available at Stone Mountain Park Campgrounds. Otherwise, it’s time to pack up, return your rental van and head back to the Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. During your travels, ask the family: Where will we take our next road trip?
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Find America’s best campsites.